Recordable DVD discs

Because of all the competing standards in recordable DVD drives there are also numerous different types of recordable DVD discs and names for discs. Below is a listing of each of the different types of recordable DVD discs and a brief explanation about each of them.

DVD-5 (DVD-R, DVD-RW, and DVD+RW)

Also known as single sided single layered, DVD-5 is capable of holding up to 4.37 GB worth of data and is available in each of the media formats listed in the above heading. It is important to realize when purchasing these discs they will likely be labeled as "DVD-RW Only" or "DVD+RW Only", make sure to purchase the discs designed for your drive.

DVD-9 (DVD+R9 or DVD+R DL (Dual Layered))

Also known as singled sided dual layered, DVD-9 is capable of holding up to 8.5 GB worth of data and is available in each of the media formats listed in the above heading.

DVD-10 (DVD-R, DVD-RW, and DVD+RW)

Also known as double sided single layered, DVD-10 is capable of holding up to 9.4 GB worth of data and is available in each of the media formats listed in the above heading. It is important to realize when purchasing these discs they will likely be labeled as "DVD-RW Only" or "DVD+RW Only", make sure to purchase the discs designed for your drive.

DVD-18 (DVD+R9 or DVD+R DL (Dual Layered))

Also known as double sided dual layered, DVD-18 is capable of holding up to 15.9 GB worth of data and is available in each of the media formats listed in the above heading.

Also see: CD definitions, Recordable DVD drives